The Director General of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Rodrigo de Rato described Wednesday Algeria’s efforts during the past years as “very important.” “We got involved in Algeria at difficult times fifteen years ago and I think that the work and effort carried out by the Algerian Government and people are very important,” noted Rodrigo de Rato after his audience with President of the Republic, Abdelaziz Bouteflika.

During his visit to Algeria, the IMF chief has also met Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia, Minister of Finance Abdellatif Benachenhou, Central Bank Governor Mohammed Laksaci, members of Parliament, and representatives of civil society.

"Major challenges remain, in particular to quicken the pace of sustainable growth and to reduce the high level of unemployment. The increased political stability and Algeria's strong financial position create an ideal window of opportunity to tackle these challenges."